Russian Direct Investment Fund, Qatar Investment Authority to create new $2 bln investment platform

MOSCOW. April 17 (Interfax) - The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) have announced the creation of a new $2 billion investment platform.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar.

Russia and Qatar are expanding their partnership, placing emphasis on investments in technology, healthcare and mineral extraction projects, as well as other mutually beneficial sectors, the RDIF reported. Both will invest an equal share of $1 billion into the platform.

The RDIF and QIA launched their first investment platform in 2014 with $4 billion of capital. To date, the platform has facilitated investments in various projects across Russia, in financial and banking services, artificial intelligence, metal production, logistics, transport and many others, the RDIF said.

"This partnership will open up new opportunities for Russian companies on Middle Eastern markets and will support Qatari businesses in entering the Russian market, creating a sturdy bridge for constructive interactions," RDIF head Kirill Dmitriev is quoted as saying.